THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The 150th anniversary celebrations of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) would begin in the state on January 22. Minister for Culture K C Joseph would inaugurate the function at Hotel Chaithram at 10 a m, Dr M Nambirajan, Superintending Archeologist, ASI, Thrissur circle told a news conference here on Saturday. He said that Sajan Peter, Principal Secretary, Department of Cultural Affairs, would be the Guest of Honour. M G S Narayanan, Director General, Centre for Heritage Studies, Thripunithura would be the chief guest. Dr S V Venkiteshaiah, Regional Director of ASI, would preside over the function. The Thrissur circle of ASI was established in April 1997 with the monuments/sites in Kerala and adjoining districts of Tamil Nadu viz Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli and Nilgiri. Nambirajan said that there were 28 monuments and 9 sites, centrally protected under the administrative control of the circle. He said the major works carried out include conservation of Vadakkumnatha temple, the temples of Parasurama, Brahma, Siva and Matsya at Thiruvallam, Siva temple at Peruvanam, St Angelo Fort, Kannur, Palakkad Fort, Bekel Fort, Tellicherry Fort, Mattancherry Palace, St Francis Church, Kochi, Fort Vattakkottai etc. It had also carried out exploration and excavation in places like Bekel Fort, Megalithic burial at Ummichipoyil in Kasargod district and Megalithic Cist burial site at Kadanad in Kottayam district. He said the circle was presently engaged in the conservation of Koodalmanikyam Temple in Irinjalakuda, under civil deposit scheme at an estimated cost of Rs 3.49 crore. He said they were also encouraging research in archeology and creating awareness by frequently organising seminars, photo exhibitions etc.
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